A BELOVED owl has been stolen after nearly 30 years in captivity.
Merlin’s carers say they are devastated and hugely concerned for his welfare.
The Wimbledon and Putney Commons charity in South West London says the tawny owl was taken from his flight pen.
It says Merlin, who has been in captivity all his life, could not have escaped and there is no evidence of a fox attack.
Police have been informed of the theft which has baffled Pam Broughton, zoo director at The Owls Trust.
She said: “I can’t imagine why someone would want to steal a tawny owl.”
She said the Tawny owl is common in the UK and that the stolen creature wouldn’t go for more than £30.
But those with the legal papers to prove an owl has been bred in captivity could get a £200 for the breed.
She added that most thefts are committed by collectors looking to add more valuable and unique breeds to their collection.
But some steal impressively large and “extremely dangerous” owls to keep in their gardens to “show off to their friends.”
But she added: “No one’s going to be impressed by Merlin.
“Someone must have particularly wanted this owl.”
The Commons charity said: “Please please please, if anyone knows anything about his disappearance we implore you to get in touch.”
